Grading the Eagles in their deflating OT loss to Cowboys

Here’s how the Philadelphia Eagles graded out in their 29-23 overtime loss to the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday.

OFFENSE: D-

This is a popgun offense that would prompt the late Buddy Ryan to throw a punch. Don’t let the 256 yards or QB Carson Wentz’s 120.3 passer rating fool you. A competent Division I-AA program could have done better in this game. Hideous pass-run ratio was a key.

DEFENSE: C

How one unit plays often affects the other. The defense was hamstrung by the offense, which possessed the ball for just 22:32 while picking up just 16 first downs. Had the defenders not been gasping for air in overtime, they might not have faltered.

SPECIAL TEAMS: D

Jake Elliott missed an extra point that would have made a difference in the game. P Cameron Johnston finished with a decent 43.5 net average. Corey Clement took a kickoff back 36 yards. Would have been a great grade if not for the missed extra point.

COACHING: F

Head coach Doug Pederson needed to go for 2 after the last touchdown. He wouldn’t have hesitated last year. This year, like Wentz is a different QB, he’s a different coach. Defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz needs to call more zero blitzes. Period.